How to Design a Corner Bookcase

Study corner bookcase designs. Visit furniture stores and look through home decorating books and magazines to get an idea of the type of design you want to create. Corner bookcases come in a variety of styles, from two to six levels and shelves that are shaped like crescents or triangles. Note particular features that you like about the corner bookcases -- take pictures and use them as references.

Consider the type of materials to construct the bookcase out of. Decide if you want to create a sleek, modern piece assembled with lacquered wood, or if you'd prefer a more natural looking bookcase made from knotty pine. Alternatively, you can construct the bookcase from a fabricated material, such as multiple density fiberboard and paint it to add appeal to the piece. Choose a material that you think will best suit your needs and coordinate with the space you intend to use the piece in.

Measure the corner where you intend to use the bookcase. Determine how high you want the bookcase, as well as how deep you want it. Take into consideration the items you will be displaying on the bookcase when determining the measurements. For example, design a bookcase with ample space between the shelves if you intend on storing tall books. If the bookcase will be used to display collectibles, you may be able to design a piece with less room between the shelves.

Decide how to approach the project. If you're a skilled carpenter, you likely have experience with such projects and can tackle its construction head-on. If you're a novice, read up on how to build the piece in books or take a woodworking class to learn how to construct the piece. Alternatively, if you aren't comfortable with building the bookcase, hire a carpenter to complete the project for you.

Sketch your design. Once you have determined the features, size and materials, draw an image of your corner bookcase. If you want to create a "true" corner bookcase with shelves along both walls, for instance, sketch out shelves that come to a point where the walls meet. This could either be two free-standing bookcases fitting together in the corner -- or shelves that attach to the walls. Use the sketch to guide you while you're constructing the piece.